Give it time — 8 months ago
2013 vintage. Decanted and tasted immediately and after 30 mins. Reticent nose. Medium-heavy body. Massive flavors and structure. Wouldn’t open it any time soon. Phenomenal now but so so intense. If you can Potsie it for a decade plus, do so. Another reminder as to why Barolo is the wine of kings. 11.01.24. — a year ago

Golden color; peach and citrus on the nose; full viscosity; lemon, cooked peaches; 12% — a month ago
this was a risk! she’s slightly pricey but went down so well, light in exactly the way it should be but still has depth. a re-purchase for a special occasion — 5 months ago
A sweet dark fruit (blackberry and plum), vanilla & chocolate. — a year ago
My new find. Really enjoying the burg GC’s at the moment. No need to spend a kings ransom for excellence, either.
Refer to my prior notes. — 3 years ago
Gianfranco Alessandria – Barolo 2020
Piedmont – Italy 🇮🇹
Overview
Made from 100% Nebbiolo, this Barolo captures the essence of Piedmont’s most noble grape. The 2020 vintage is still youthful, showing its classic austerity and perfume while beginning the long climb toward its prime. (Educational note: Nebbiolo is famous for combining delicate floral aromatics with firm tannins and vibrant acidity, giving Barolo its legendary aging potential.)
Aromas & Flavors
Roses and violets open gracefully, followed by tart red cherry, cranberry, and dried strawberry. Nuances of anise, tar, and subtle spice emerge with air, promising further complexity as the wine matures.
Mouthfeel
Medium-bodied but firmly structured, with gripping tannins and racing acidity. The tart fruit and floral notes ride on a backbone of minerality, finishing long and tightly wound — signaling a wine built for age.
Food Pairings
Perfect with rich northern Italian cuisine: truffle risotto, braised beef (Brasato al Barolo), or wild mushroom tagliatelle. Also shines with aged Parmigiano Reggiano.
Verdict
A beautiful, youthful Barolo — tart, floral, and nervy, with cherry fruit and soaring acidity. Still climbing toward its peak, but already showing elegance and grace. A wine for patient cellaring, yet utterly captivating today. 🍷
Did You Know?
Barolo is often called “the king of wines and the wine of kings.” Its Nebbiolo grape name comes from nebbia (fog), referencing the autumn mists that blanket Piedmont’s vineyards during harvest.
Hidden Gem 💎
Gianfranco Alessandria is a boutique Barolo producer, crafting expressive, terroir-driven wines that fly under the radar compared to larger names — a true gem for collectors and explorers. — a month ago
With za'atar scallops on tabbouleh with dill yogurt sauce,, subzero chef demo dinner — a year ago
Brian Grech
Light on tannins, very soft — 16 days ago